On May 3rd in music history, one significant event took place in 1976. Paul McCartney and Wings kicked off their "Wings Over America" tour at the Tarrant County Convention Center in Fort Worth, Texas. This tour was a massive undertaking and a triumphant return to live performances for McCartney.
The "Wings Over America" tour was the first time McCartney had toured the United States since The Beatles' final tour in 1966, a decade earlier. The tour featured a massive stage production, complete with elaborate lighting, sound effects, and even a laser show. The setlist included a mix of Wings songs, McCartney solo material, and Beatles classics, pleasing fans of all eras of McCartney's career.
One notable aspect of the tour was the inclusion of a horn section, which added a new dimension to the band's sound. The tour also featured a surprise guest appearance by Denny Laine, a former member of Wings who had left the band in 1981.
The "Wings Over America" tour was a massive success, playing to sold-out crowds across the United States and Canada. The tour grossed over $10 million, making it one of the highest-grossing tours of the year. A live album, also titled "Wings Over America," was released in December 1976, capturing the energy and excitement of the tour.
The tour's success marked a significant comeback for McCartney, who had faced criticism and a decline in popularity in the years following The Beatles' breakup. The "Wings Over America" tour proved that McCartney was still a force to be reckoned with in the music world and cemented his status as a legendary performer.